*Expert makes recommendations
Richard Elesho
The governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, on Monday, visited Isanlu Esa, Okoloke, and Okunran in Yagba West Local Government Area of the state, an axis that has suffered multiple security infractions in recent times.
The governor, during the visit, banned illegal mining and vowed to eliminate criminality and banditry from the state.
Ododo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for their maximum support to see that criminality and banditry are eliminated completely from the state and the nation at large.
He further praised members of the security agencies for their dedication, commitment, bravery, selflessness, and professionalism in ensuring that the lives and livelihoods of people are secured, charging them to remain united for a common goal, as the necessary support needed would be given.
“Let me thank you for your efforts in ensuring security in this area. Your synergy has made your assignment easier, and I am always ready to provide all necessary support to triumph over criminality,” the governor said.
He regretted that the state had neglected the fertile land for farming as well as the mineral deposits in commercial quantities unexplored, assuring the citizenry of his administration’s unwavering commitment towards the full exploration for transformative development.
“I also want to commiserate with families and communities that have lost their loved ones. As your governor, I share in your pains, and I am determined to make criminality a thing of the past in this local government. I was elected to protect lives and property, and we will not relent until Kogi State is safe,” he emphasized.
The governor ordered the traditional rulers to stop giving out land to strangers for peanuts and urged them to admonish the youths not to be used as agents by the criminals, stressing that anyone caught would be treated as criminals.
He charged the miners to obtain a licence from the federal government and come to the state for profiling, stressing that anyone who disobeys the order would face the wrath of the law.
In his welcome remarks, the Commander of the Nigerian Army in charge of the operation, Brigadier General K. U. Sidi, commended the combined efforts of the security agencies, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, Department of State Services (DSS), and special forces in combating criminality in the area.
Sidi expressed appreciation to the governor for his sustained support of the security agencies, noting that the provision of logistics and other assistance had strengthened their capacity to secure the area. He also acknowledged the “invaluable contributions” of the Hybrid Force from the Office of the National Security Adviser for the ongoing operation in Yagba West.
The Royal Father of Isanlu Esa, HRH Oba Olufemi Ogunremi, commended Governor Ododo and the security agencies for their efforts, stressing that their relentless efforts had made it possible for the residents to still remain within the community.
He appealed to the security agencies to maintain their presence in the area until criminal activities are completely eradicated.
Insecurity: Expert makes recommendations
As the nation grapples with multiple security breaches, a private security expert, Seyi Babaeko, has advocated for a strong synergy between private security operatives and government security agencies as an enduring way of safeguarding lives and properties of the citizens.
Babaeko, the Chief Executive, CEO, Absolute Security, and Advance Protocol Ltd, suggested in a paper titled “The Role of Private Security Companies in strengthening national security.”
He opened the paper with a highlight of the security challenges confronting Nigeria. He identified terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and vandalism as crimes, creating enormous problems for people in the country.
“Private firms fill a vital gap by securing homes, businesses, estates, banks, schools, and critical infrastructure. This allows government forces to focus on large-scale threats while communities and institutions remain safeguarded by trained operatives. By working at the grassroots, private security personnel are also well placed to observe unusual patterns, detect risks, and provide early warnings that often prevent crimes from escalating. Their close relationship with local communities makes them an indispensable source of intelligence for official agencies.
“The economic stability of the nation also depends heavily on the services of private security. Oil pipelines, power installations, communication hubs, and financial institutions are prime targets for theft, sabotage, or vandalism. Without strong protection, these assets would be vulnerable, and the country’s development could be severely disrupted. By guarding such assets, private firms ensure that the foundations of the economy remain secure.
“The industry has also emerged as one of the largest employers of young Nigerians. Beyond simply providing jobs, many companies now invest in advanced training, modern equipment, and global best practices. This focus on professionalism has raised standards across the industry and positioned private security as a respected partner in national development.
Under the regulation of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, private security companies maintain accountability and proper coordination with state forces. This partnership strengthens the national security framework and ensures that public and private efforts are aligned toward the same goal.
“The future of security in Nigeria rests not only on manpower but also on technology. CCTV systems, drones, biometric access controls, cyber defence solutions, and artificial intelligence are becoming central to protection strategies. Private firms are driving this shift by adopting advanced tools that deliver real-time surveillance and rapid response, offering a level of efficiency that traditional approaches can not achieve.
“Securing Nigeria is a shared responsibility. It requires the combined strength of government agencies and private operators working together as partners. When this collaboration is effective, it multiplies the country’s capacity to protect lives, secure assets, and sustain peace.
“At Absolute Security and Advanced Protocol Ltd, our mission is simple. We stand as your shield in an unpredictable world, committed to protecting communities, safeguarding critical assets, and supporting the security of the nation.”
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